Tim Miller, the producer of Amazon’s new animated anthology series Secret Level, admits that it’s challenging to satisfy all fans of the diverse video game franchises the show draws inspiration from. The series features 15 episodes, each based on different games spanning from classics like Pac-Man to modern titles such as Honor of Kings. During a discussion with BBC Newsbeat, Miller expressed, “We’re not afraid of the companies. We’re afraid of the fans,” highlighting the complexities of catering to such a passionate audience.
Secret Level is part of a growing trend in Hollywood to adapt video games into television series and films, following the success of Prime Video’s Fallout adaptation. Recently, Amazon announced a collaboration with Games Workshop to develop projects set in the Warhammer universe, and one episode of Secret Level is dedicated to Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. Director Dave Wilson notes the challenge of merging the game’s extensive lore—developed over 40 years—with the narrative needs of television, exemplifying this with the concept of space marines who must confront fear in their heroic choices.
The series stars notable actors, including Keanu Reeves, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Kevin Hart, alongside established voice talent from the gaming industry, like Laura Bailey and Clive Standen. The involvement of these actors demonstrates a growing recognition for video game voice talent, and Wilson believes fans appreciate seeing their favorite characters represented by the original actors. Miller noted that established stars are often drawn to the projects out of genuine interest rather than monetary gain, as the gaming community has become a significant cultural phenomenon.
While reviews of Secret Level have been mixed, with some episodes receiving higher praise than others, Miller and Wilson are concerned about the potential backlash from fans. They pointed out that online discussions about gaming can often become toxic. Tim expressed a desire for more constructive discourse around such projects, acknowledging that not every creation will resonate with everyone but emphasizing the earnest intentions of creators striving to produce quality content.
In summary, Secret Level brings together an impressive array of talent to adapt beloved video game franchises, showcasing the evolving relationship between the gaming and entertainment industries. As these adaptations continue to grow in popularity, there’s hope that the gaming community will engage in more constructive and appreciative dialogue about these creative ventures. This spirit of collaboration can foster a supportive environment that celebrates the art of storytelling across mediums.
Overall, it’s exciting to see such ambitious projects bridging the gap between video games and mainstream media, indicating a bright future for adaptations that honor the source material while appealing to broader audiences.